Autoblog

Lamborghini Ankonian by Slavche Tanevski is part wasp, part alien, all black

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 18:58:00 EST

Lamborghini Ankonian Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Slavche Tanevski had a project to complete at the Munich University of Applied Sciences, and the result is the stacked, vented, and char-blackened concept you see above. In keeping with Lamborghini nomenclature, an Ankonian is a kind of bull, and if you took a Lamborghini Reventon and asked the question, "Does it blend?", the Ankonian concept is what you might pour out of your glassware.

It doesn't have any hypothetical specs, nor, we suppose, does it really need them. The car is long, low, and narrow, and darkly hostile enough to go as quickly or as slowly as it wishes. What it does have is flames that shoot out of the exhaust, and frankly, that's enough for us. You can have various looks at it in the gallery of high-res photos below, but please, don't make it angry. You wouldn't like it when it's angry.

Gallery: Lamborghini Ankonian Concept by Slavche Tanevski

[Source: CarDesign.ru (translated)]

Lamborghini Ankonian by Slavche Tanevski is part wasp, part alien, all black originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:40:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Europe, Videos, Lamborghini

All hail the drift king, Valentino Balboni - Click above to view the video after the jump

Fate is a funny thing. It was our destiny to get a ride with Valentino Balboni in a Lamborghini LP550-2 Valentino Balboni during rush hour traffic in Los Angeles. Lucky? Absolutely, though we may have crested 50 mph once... maybe. Would we have preferred to have been in the passenger seat of this here limeade green Valentino Balboni as Lamborghini's legendary test driver literally hoons the rear tires off the car? Dear God, yes!!

The following video is actually a pretty good demonstration of the difference between RWD and AWD vehicles. You'll see the Mr. Balboni flinging the LP550-2 around a corner, the rear sliding out a touch before he applies just a dab of oppo' to get the V10-powered, rear-wheel drive mini-monster back in line. This is followed by an AWD LP560-4 which simply can't break traction and sort of gracelessly shunts and shutters its way around the corner. Faster, no doubt -- but not nearly as fun to watch. And then there are sparks and smoke and trust us you'll love this. Watch the video, after the jump.

[Source: YouTube via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni

VIDEO: Lamborghini's Valentino Balboni drifting a Lamborghini Valentino Balboni originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Edo Competition creates the Lamborghini Gallardo LP600/4

Drew Phillips — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Lamborghini

Edo Competition Gallardo LP600/4 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Edo Competition is no stranger to modifying Lamborghinis. Its unique touch has graced the Gallardo Superleggera and Murcielago LP640, along with a limited edition Christian Audigier edition Murcielago, among others.

Now the German tuner has taken the Gallardo LP560-4 and given it what it likes to call a little "added spice". The output of the Italian supercar has been bumped to an even 600 horsepower thanks to a new stainless steel exhaust system and an ECU tune, resulting in a claimed top speed of 211 mph. Other upgrades include an adjustable sport suspension system, 19-inch three-piece wheels, and a new front spoiler lip. You can read more details in the press release after the jump and check out the high-res gallery of photos below.

Gallery: edo competition Gallardo LP600/4

[Source: Edo Competition]

Continue reading Edo Competition creates the Lamborghini Gallardo LP600/4

Edo Competition creates the Lamborghini Gallardo LP600/4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: 1972 Lamborghini Espada is tanfastic

Noah Joseph — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Coupe, Performance, Auctions, Lamborghini

1972 Lamborghini Espada Series II - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you were shocked when Lamborghini unveiled a four-door in the form of the Estoque concept at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, then you know how enthusiasts must have felt when the Raging Bull took the wraps off the Espada in 1968. A four-seat Lambo? Shocking! But that's what they did, and the Espada entered into the history books.

Powered by Lambo's trusty 3.9-liter V12 that already appeared in the 350GT, 400GT and Miura, the Espada was the first Lambo to be offered with an automatic. In fact, it was the first automatic transmission - all two speeds of it - capable of handling that much power, and came on offer with the 1974 model. This model, however, was made in '72 - making it one of the last Series II models made before the Series III came along - and is equipped with a five-speed manual, along with four-wheel disc brakes and a fully independent suspension: cutting edge stuff for its time.

It's tan, it's had one owner, and from the looks of things, it's been kept in meticulous condition. The car's up for grabs on eBay by Lamborghini Houston. Bidding at the time of writing is up to a modest $20,200 and the reserve price hasn't been met yet, so if this is your idea of automotive heaven, stop on by and check it out.

Gallery: 1972 Lamborghini Espada Series II on eBay

[Source: eBay Motors]

eBay Find of the Day: 1972 Lamborghini Espada is tanfastic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles

Jonny Lieberman — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:20:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Videos, Lamborghini

Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos - click above to watch the video

While not quite as in your ~~groin~~ face as Samuel L. Jackson's Snakes on a Plane, the following video is as honest in its title to content ratio. Yes, a camera crew in a helicopter follows two Lamborghini Gallardos (one hardtop and one Spyder) up and down Pacific Coast Highway and through some of the Southland's best canyon roads. Nearly perfect, right?

Well, there's an issue or two. First is the thumping, blasting "butt-rock" soundtrack. Second, that soundtrack is annoying and obscures the glorious fury of the Gallardo's 5.2-liter V10 -- a motor that can make a four-year-old to burst into tears when cranked from a cold start (true story -- we saw it happen in person). Truly, a beast of an engine.

Had it been our video then, we would've killed the royalty-free-Nickelback soundtrack and instead stuck mics on the Lambos as if they were pincushions. Then we'd have tailed the two blue bulls to Kanan Dume Road. Why Kanan? Tunnels -- three of them. Not to get all David E. Davis on you, but you really haven't lived until you've heard Lambo's V10 at 8,250 rpm in a confined space. Glorious. With that said, make the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles

VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Lamborghini Gallardo cop car crashes in Italy thanks to careless driver

Chris Shunk — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:30:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Government/Legal, Lamborghini

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia is a very capable police cruiser that just happens to also be an extremely desirable Italian exotic. How many police cruisers can go 200 mph while toting a vital organ in its specially made refrigerated storage? While Lambo and the Italian State Police thought of all kinds of neat amenities to make the LP560-4 the perfect cruiser, they neglected to install an idiot detection device and now they're paying the ultimate price.

One of two Gallardo LP560-4 Polizias is ready for the scrap heap after a careless Seat Ibiza driver pulled out of a gas station without first looking for $200,000 police car. The undoubtedly surprised driver of the Gallardo swerved to avoid the oblivious one and smashed into a row of parked cars. The wedge-like Gallardo hit the cars so hard that one vehicle actually ended up on top (see above) of the ultimate Pig-mobile, crushing the front end. Luckily, the police officer and his passenger were unhurt in the incident. Ironically, the police issue Gallardo was on its way home from a safe driving seminar when the accident occurred.

What a bummer. The cop driving the car was one of 20 officers specially trained to handle the Gallardo's awesome V10 power. Now that the world's neatest police cruiser is scrap-worthy, he'll likely have to go back to driving a Fiat. Thanks for the tips, everyone!!

Gallery: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia

[Source: Guardian | Image: YouReporter.IT]

REPORT: Lamborghini Gallardo cop car crashes in Italy thanks to careless driver originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini not attending LA Auto Show

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:32:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Performance, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Lamborghini, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Spyker, Fisker, Luxury

The closest we'll get to the Ferrari 458 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's an unsurprising stat for you: 60 percent of all vehicles sold in the U.S. that cost over $100,000 find homes in New York, Florida and California. The majority of which are parked in garages in Manhattan, Miami and Los Angeles, respectively. So the revelation that Bentley, Ferrari and Lamborghini won't be attending next month's LA Auto Show is -- at the very least -- surprising.

According to a spokesperson speaking with The Detroit Bureau, Bentley has decided to skip the So. Cal. show, adding that the automaker is looking for "a better use of our resources." Ferrari and its sister marque Maserati are out as well, with an unnamed source telling the industry pub, "It's just the economy. We're cutting back on a lot of things."

Given the global economic climate and its affect on high-end automotive sales, the choice to scale back isn't such a shock, but for automakers that rely on the Southern California market, it's a disturbing sign of the times. As for the rest of the LA exhibitors, the luxury market's Big Three (Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz) will be in attendance, although it looks like the lower hall will only house Aston Martin, Spyker, Fisker and -- we'd assume -- Rolls-Royce.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Ferrari 458 Italia

[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

REPORT: Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini not attending LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Range-topping Lamborghini Urus rumored anew

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Lamborghini, Rumormill

2010 Lamborghini Reventón Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

So you like the Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV, but you're struggling to justify the price. After all, it may be just as fast as the Reventón, but it only costs a third of that range-topping bull. You like that it's the latest limited-edition hypercar from Sant'Agata Bolognese, but will everyone think you're slumming by not getting the most expensive bull in the barn? Come to think of it, maybe you can hold out for the Reventón Roadster, which should easily surpass the coupe as the ne plus ultra in the Lambo lineup. Of course, you could just stick with your ordinary LP640-4 or LP650-4 Roadster a little longer and wait for the Murcielago replacement in a year or two.

When that so-called Jota finally debuts, it will bring with it a new carbon fiber chassis and an equally new direct-injected 6.0-liter V12 thought to be good for at least 700 horsepower. Yeah, that's probably the way to go. After all, the economy isn't exactly the best right now and plunking down $1.5M for a new car might make others unnecessarily envious. Haters. Of course, if you wait too long, you might find yourself debating waiting a little longer still for the Jota-besting halo car from Lamborghini, the rumored Urus.

CARS UK is quoting "a source close to Lamborghini" when they talk about this new halo vehicle, which is expected to take on all comers, especially that "FX70" Enzo-replacement coming out of Maranello. Using a modified Jota chassis, the Urus will go on an even stricter diet to make it a ~~featherweight~~ lighter heavyweight. It will drop the few bits of aluminum that are expected to be used on the Jota and go all carbon fiber. That, active aerodynamics, and a nearly 800 horsepower version of the Jota V12 in its engine bay should allow the Urus to challenge even the Bugatti Veyron with a sub-3-second 0-60mph time. The real question becomes -- Can you wait until 2012 for the Urus or will you buckle a year earlier and pop for the Jota in 2011? You know what, just get both.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lamborghini Reventon Roadster

[Source: Cars UK]

Range-topping Lamborghini Urus rumored anew originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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All Dubai'd Out and About: Chrome Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster shows up in London

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Etc., Lamborghini

Not sure how many of you remember, but last time we saw a mirror-finished car we had us a little poll concerning what to call vehicles in this condition. Here are the results, in order:

21.2% voted we should call mental health professionals
25.2% voted to simply call 'em Chromed
25.2% voted for "All Moscow'd Out"
28.4% voted for "All Dubai'd Out"

Therefore, according to you, you're looking at an "All Dubai'd Out" Murcielago drop top. It's official. And yes, there it is, sitting in London traffic next to a cab and a guy on a rickshaw. Supposedly on Downing Street. Wonder if the owner is chums of Gordon Brown? No, right -- probably more likely Blair. Tip of the hat to Bo.

[Source: Synamatiq]

All Dubai'd Out and About: Chrome Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster shows up in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lamborghini and TAG Heuer collaborate on special edition Meridiist mobile phone

Noah Joseph — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:20:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Lamborghini

TAG Heuer Meridiist Automobili Lamborghini - Click above for high-res image gallery

TAG Heuer is no stranger to the car world. They've been crafting driving watches for nearly 150 years and sponsor more racing drivers than you can shake a titanium-alloy rod at. Although the watchmaker has long since been sold to LVMH (which in turn nearly acquired Aston Martin a few years back), TAG partnered with Porsche to develop F1 racing engines in the 1980s for McLaren, in which the company still owns a stake. So it should hardly come as a great surprise that following the watchmaker's foray into the mobile phone market, they've teamed up with an exclusive sportscar manufacturer for a special edition.

The Meridiist Automobili Lamborghini is a quad-band GSM world phone packing 2 gigs of memory, a 2 megapixel camera, an unprecedented 28-day standby/7-hour talk time capacity, stereo Bluetooth and all the bells and whistles you could expect. The case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, coated in black titanium carbide, with a display screen made of 60.5-karat scratch-proof sapphire crystal. And naturally, it's emblazoned with Lambo logos front and back.

Taking aim squarely at Vertu's automotive-inspired luxury cellphones, only 1,963 examples of the Meridiist Lamborghini will be offered, in tribute to the year Ferrucio started selling sportscars. So don't expect to find them for sale down at your local phone shack, particularly since they'll only be available through Lamborghini dealers and select TAG Heuer retailers.

Gallery: TAG Heuer MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini

[Source: TAG Heuer and Lamborghini]

Continue reading Lamborghini and TAG Heuer collaborate on special edition Meridiist mobile phone

Lamborghini and TAG Heuer collaborate on special edition Meridiist mobile phone originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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550 Reindeer-Power: Lamborghini celebrates Christmas early with Balboni baubles

Noah Joseph — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:28:00 EST

Filed under: Lamborghini, Toys/Games, Design/Style

2010 Lamborghini Christmas Collection - Click above to view in high resolution

With households across America still decking their halls with jack-o-lanters and all manner of goolish decorations, it may be a tad soon to start thinking about the winter holiday season. But for Lamborghini, Christmas arrives early this year with the launch of the hardcore Balboni edition Gallardo. And to commemorate, Lambo's putting the Santa in Sant'Agata Bolognese with a new collection of holiday ornaments and stocking-stuffers.

Just as it has in years past, Lamborghini has released a new set of tree ornaments, decorative candles, calendars and other paraphernalia, this year carrying the Balboni theme in honor of its legendary test driver and the driver-focused LP550-2 that bears his name. Along with the latest collection of Raging Bull-emblazoned sportswear, the holiday wares are available directly from the Lamborghini Store, with details enumerated in the press release after the jump like so many maids a-milking and swans a-swimming (while you're enjoying that, Jonny and I will be waiting for the release of the Reventon dreidel.)

[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading 550 Reindeer-Power: Lamborghini celebrates Christmas early with Balboni baubles

550 Reindeer-Power: Lamborghini celebrates Christmas early with Balboni baubles originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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200 mph supercars featured at the 2nd Annual Caruso Concours

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Audi, Bugatti, Dodge, Ford, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Misc. Auto Shows, Ferrari

2nd Annual Caruso Concours - Click above for our high-res image gallery courtesy Greg Grudt

The 2nd Annual Caruso Concours was held this past weekend at The Americana at Brand shopping center in Glendale, California. Put off a bit by threatening skies, we didn't make it out there ourselves, but luckily, Autoblog friend and shutterbug Greg Grudt was there to capture all of the excitement for us. This sophomore outing was once again put on by The Petersen Automotive Museum, and as was the case last year, a brace of incredible vehicles showed up to this fitting but unorthodox locale. Showgoers could peruse the cars for a bit and then pick up a Tiffany necklace on their way out.

This year's gathering focused on supercars - in particular, supercars capable of 200 mph. Not meant to be an exhaustive showing of double-century barrier breakers, it nonetheless attracted an impressive array of cars capable of close to, if not over, the magic mark. The fun part was just seeing them all together in one place. Judging by Grudt's images, it looks like the Americana also happens to be hosting a few of those Toyota solar sunflowers, which made for an interesting juxtaposition.

Supercars right off the showroom floor mingled with old-timers from as far back as the Eighties. For instance, the display included not just the Bugatti Veyron, but also its forebearer, the EB110. The list of cars in attendance read like a roster of World's Fastest Cars contenders. Ferrari was represented by an Enzo, F50, F40, 288GTO, 16M, and a SuperAmerica. The Lamborghini cluster was comprised of an LP670-SV, LP640-4, LP560-4 and even a Countach. There was also a Mercedes-McLaren SLR, CLK DTM, Ford GT, Dodge Viper, Cizeta V16t, Maserati MC12, Nissan GT-R, Audi R8, and even a Jaguar XJ220, which complemented the long flowing bodywork of the adjacent Maser quite nicely. They even dragged out the AREX Concept which was supposed to be good for 214 mph.

All-in, it appears to have been a great way to bring exotics to the people. Be sure to check out Greg's pics in the gallery, and check out a larger gallery by clicking here.

Gallery: 2nd Annual Caruso Concours

Photos copyright (C)2009 Greg Grudt/Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: socalspeedzone.com]

200 mph supercars featured at the 2nd Annual Caruso Concours originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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How Thoughtful: Lamborghini offering 0% financing on new Murciélago LP640 models

Chris Shunk — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Lamborghini, Earnings/Financials

Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 - Click above for high-res image gallery

A Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 starts at around $350,000 and can quickly crest $400,000 with the addition of a few options and a dropable top, and the LP640-4 starts at $450,000. That's a lot of coin to be sure, but in the spirit of pulling together to ride out this whole "recession" thing, Lamborghini is looking to ease the blow of $7,000 per month financing with a new 0% offer for the 2009 and 2010 Murciélago coupe and roadster. The Italian supercar maker is offering 0% for up to 60 months for customers with credit scores over 740 and down payments somewhere north of 10% (the press release doesn't provide an exact number). That's a pretty big bargain considering a buyer picking up an LP640 for $400,000 with $80,000 down (20%) for $5,333.33 per month over 60 months, while the typical 5.9% interest rate would bring the monthly payment to $6171.63 with $50,297.67 in accumulated interest over the course of the loan.

Lamborghini is also offering 5.9% interest for up to 12 years for customers with 10% down and a credit score of 700. That makes for a monthly payment of about $3,500 per month on a $400,000 LP640, with $143,000 in interest over the course of the loan. While those loan terms sound all right to us, we're sadly still a bit short on funds for the Autoblog garage. Hit the jump to read over the Lamborghini presser.

Gallery: Review: 2008 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

All photos Copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading How Thoughtful: Lamborghini offering 0% financing on new Murciélago LP640 models

How Thoughtful: Lamborghini offering 0% financing on new Murciélago LP640 models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JB Design tweaks Lamborghini Murcielago past the 700 horsepower mark

Noah Joseph — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Lamborghini

Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 JB-R by JB Car Design - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Lamborghini Murcielago may be getting old, but the raging bull still has some fight left in it. Some figure it just needs a little encouragement. Like JB Design.

The German tuning house has released a comprehensive tuning package for the LP-640 that leaves no stone unturned. The engine can be upgraded to 714- or 750-horsepower specifications. The shift paddles have been replaced with an F1-style rocker lever. An extensive carbon fiber aerodynamic package includes front and rear spoilers, rear diffuser, front air intake side skirts, and front and rear hoods. The wheels have been swapped out for 20-inch Schmidt Revolution alloys with steamroller Michelin rubber. The interior has been refinished in custom leather, Alcantara and carbon fiber trim. The stock exhaust has been replaced by an adjustable system. And the body has been re-sprayed in a custom paint that costs 280,000 euros per liter ($414k).

The cost of the modifications runs half a million euros (about $740k), but JB Design is looking to offload this particular demonstration car for 355,000 euros ($525k). Such a deal. Follow the jump for the full details in the press release and check out the images in our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 JB-R by JB Car Design

[Source: JB Design]

Continue reading JB Design tweaks Lamborghini Murcielago past the 700 horsepower mark

JB Design tweaks Lamborghini Murcielago past the 700 horsepower mark originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lamborghini teams with University of Washington to create better composites

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Lamborghini

University of Washington Automobili Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory - Click above for high-res gallery

The presidents of Lamborghini and the University of Washington were both on hand recently as UW opened its Automobili Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory. As you might guess from that title, the Italian supercar maker is officially teaming up with the Washington school to work on advanced composites. The new Lambo Lab will get a healthy donation for equipment and student support from Lamborghini, and the university will provide research on composite structures and materials, something they know pretty well from working on projects like the 787 Dreamliner for Boeing.

The two organizations have actually been working together for the past two years. Lamborghini engineers have been using the UW lab for months at a time, and UW faculty have flown to Italy to teach classes in Bologna. Graduate students have even been serving internships at Lamborghini. Now that's an non-paying job we'd be willing to work.

After reading the full press release, however, we might not be so enthusiastic about raising our hands to volunteer in the lab. They have one of the best lightning-strike generators around, used to simulate lightning strikes at up to 100,000 amps. The lab also features a pneumatic crash sled and a drop tower to simulate damage from falling objects. We can just see it now, a special edition UW Lambo in Huskies' purple and gold. A couple of photos are in the gallery and the full press release is after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Andrew!

Gallery: Automobili Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory at University of Washington

[Source: Lamborghini via UW News]

Continue reading Lamborghini teams with University of Washington to create better composites

Lamborghini teams with University of Washington to create better composites originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Premier4509 gives your Lamborghini Murciélago the SV look

Noah Joseph — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Lamborghini

Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 by Premier4509 - Click above for high-res image

The end of Murciélago is upon us. The steel-framed supercar from Sant'Agata has been on the market since 2001. Since then, Lamborghini has produced over 3,000 of them. But only 350 are LP670-4 SuperVeloce spec, and you can bet the other 2,650+ owners are jealous. However, while the SV's 670-horsepower engine remains the exclusive purview of the most extreme Lambo to date, one aftermarket firm has risen up to the challenge of giving existing "base" Murciélago owners the coveted look of the SuperVeloce.

You may remember Premier4509 for producing body kits for such exotics as the Lamborghini Gallardo, Bentley Continental GT and Aston Martin V8 Vantage. Japanese tuner fanboys and gamers may sooner recognize its parent company, VeilSide. But the Japanese outfit has now released a simple visual mod for the Murciélago to give it that SV look. Essentially all it is - for the time being at least - is a new bumper, blacked out on bottom and protruding like a cowcatcher. Coupled with a big rear wing and blacked-out quarter-panel intakes and mirrors, though, and it's a dead ringer SV.

Premier4509 says they've got an accompanying rear bumper in the works as well, and will only produce 300 examples of the body kit, so there's another couple thousand Murci owners still left out in the cold. And while it may not have the power advantage, even an "ordinary" Murciélago won't stick around long enough for anyone to notice.

[Source: Premier4509]

Premier4509 gives your Lamborghini Murciélago the SV look originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AB stops at the 27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:31:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Performance, Aston Martin, Bentley, Bugatti, Cadillac, Chrysler, Ford, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lincoln, Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Misc. Auto Shows, Ferrari, Specialty, Luxury

27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis, Dana Point - Click above for high-res image gallery

For its 27th iteration, Orange County's most prestigious classic car show returned to the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, and finally dropped the "Newport Beach" from its name. No longer would it be known as the Newport Beach Concours d'Elegance, instead adopting the Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis moniker. The title may have changed, but the quality of the entrants hasn't. Still benefiting the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center at Hoag Hospital and the CSP Assessment and Treatment Services Center, the field of classic cars at this concours was once again stunning.

This year's featured marque was Mercedes-Benz, and the automaker was represented by some truly spectacular models, aided in no small part by the show's proximity to the Mercedes Classic Car Center, the factory-backed restoration shop for vintage Mercedes vehicles. Besides the beautiful Benzes, the roughly 3,000 attendees got to see about 300 other classic and exotic vehicles spread out around the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort and the adjacent Dana Point Sea Terrace Park. Read on to learn what else we found during our day in Dana Point and don't forget to check out the huge gallery below.

Gallery: 27th Annual Concours d'Elegance at The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort

Continue reading AB stops at the 27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort

AB stops at the 27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Lamborghini Estoque takin' it to the streets

Noah Joseph — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Spy Photos, Sedan, Europe, Lamborghini

Lamborghini has been hemming and hawing over the production prospects of the Estoque concept ever since it was unveiled last year at the Paris show. With a front-engine, four-door layout, the family-sized Lambo wouldn't be able to share much with either of the company's current models. But with Porsche and its new Panamera now under the same corporate umbrella - to say nothing of the upcoming Audi A7 and Bugatti Galibier concept - the prospects have never looked better.

As if to lend credence to the increasing amounts of speculation, an intrepid observer snapped the Estoque recently on the streets of Cologne, Germany. Unfortunately, the vehicle in question appears to be a the original concept car, and not a developmental test mule. However, its appearance - with no license plates, mind you - has got people asking a lot of questions. And whatever the answer, it certainly isn't that Lamborghini has killed the project.

Gallery: 2008 Lamborghini Estoque Concept

[Source: ExoticsOnRoad.com]

Spy Shots: Lamborghini Estoque takin' it to the streets originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:26:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Classics, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Motorcycle

17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance returned to its picturesque setting at Trump National Golf Club this past Sunday and we were fortunate enough to make it out. Thankfully, the recent Southern California wildfires missed this area of Palos Verdes, so the 17th installment of the concours went off without a hitch. Well, it was cloudy all morning, but that hardly dampened everyone's spirits. This classic car gathering is one of our favorites, not only for the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the well manicured golf course setting, but because of the quality of cars on hand. It's like a scaled down Pebble Beach, with several of that show's alumni in attendance.

This year's featured marque was Maserati, but all of the Italian brands were extremely well represented. Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, Iso, Bizzarrini, De Tomaso and Lancia all had strong fields, as did Italian motorcycles, which were a new class this year. There were even a few Cisitalias, Fiats, Oscas and Siatas on display. On the non-Italian side of things, there were customs, horseless carriages, brass era cars, British luxury cars, American luxury cars and a lot of other stunning vehicles.

Some highlights included the Italian race cars - Maserati Birdcage, Monopostos and 200 SIs, Iso Griffo A3/C, and the legendary Lancia Stratos (a genuine HF team car done up in Alitalia colors). The Moto Guzzi Lodola and Vespa GS160 stood out in the bike field, but it was really nice to see all of the Maserati, Ferrari (not related to Enzo), Moto Guzzi, Ducati and Benelli cycles as well.

Other four-wheeled stunners included the Pinin Farina Series I Cab, ATS 2500, Lancia Flaminia Zagato, Cisitalia Nuvolari, Ital Design Manta, Alfa 1900 CSS, Luigi Chinetti's old Lamborghini Silhouette, '50 Merc, '54 Chrysler and Plymouth Ghias, Rolls Woodie, Vauxhall, Delahaye and Lagonda sports cars, Franklin, Wills and Panhard pre-war cars, and Steve Tillack's display of everything from a barn find and bare bodies to a glorious Ferrari formula car. We've assembled a huge gallery of most of the entrants, many with their information placards in frame so you can track down more details about your favorites.

Gallery: 17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours

17th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: According to Lamborghini, chances are you will NOT own a Reventon Roadster

Jonny Lieberman — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:56:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Europe, Videos, Lamborghini

You have a better shot at the lady than the Lamborghini Reventon Roadster - Click above image to watch the video

Statistics are funny. Did you know that if you are one in a million in China, you're actually one in 1,370? We alluded to the, um, creative statistics Lambo came up with in its video when we posted about the beyond bonkers Reventon Roadster at Frankfurt. Looks like we got the stats a wee bit wrong. Example: You have a one in one hundred million chance of getting killed by a meteor, not a one in five hundred million chance. Oops. Which would almost be embarrassing considering that Lamborghini had the video on infinite loop throughout the show. However, we say "almost" because the video was playing on a giant screen behind the Lambo ladies. So, we think we get a pass -- right? Either way, full video after the jump.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lamborghini Reventon Roadster

Continue reading VIDEO: According to Lamborghini, chances are you will NOT own a Reventon Roadster

VIDEO: According to Lamborghini, chances are you will NOT own a Reventon Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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